The leaves begin to fall and the wind picks up a howl. Halloween approaches, when the ghosts and goblins prowl.
Halloween is a favorite time for many individuals, children and adults alike. However, with the festivities and tasty treats comes risk as well. Follow these simple safety precautions to keep your children safe on All Hallows Eve.
Costumes:
- Masks can limit or block eyesight. Try non-toxic makeup instead.
- Accessories and costume weapons should be blunt and/or soft.
- Fasten reflective tape to trick-or-treat bags to alert drivers.
- Ensure the snug fit of costumes. Long sleeves, skirts or capes can cause trips and falls.
- Purchase costumes with labels that specify flame resistance.
- Do not use decorative contact lenses without first consulting with your eye doctor.
At home:
- Young children should not handle pumpkin carving tools. They can paint or draw a design for a parent to carve.
- Consider a flashlight or electric candle to light your pumpkin.
- Open flames should never be left unattended. Keep them away from curtains, other flammable objects and pets. Keep them out of doorways and walkways.
- Keep common areas, walkways and stairs, both inside and out, well-lit and free of obstacles.
- Keep pets restrained during trick-or-treating and parties.
Trick-or-treating:
- Young children should always be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
- Remain on well-lit streets. Walk only on sidewalks. Do not cut across yards or alleys.
- Cross streets only at designated crosswalks. Do not cross between parked cars.
- Visit only well-lit houses. Do not stop at dark houses and never accept rides from strangers.
- Children should carry a flashlight or glow stick. If your older children go out alone, plan a route and agree on a curfew. Ensure they remain in a group and carry a cell phone.
The aftermath:
- Check your children’s treats for tampering. Throw away any spoiled or unwrapped candy.
- Factory-wrapped candy is safe to consume, but avoid homemade treats from strangers.
- Ration your children’s candy over the next few weeks to prevent too much sugar consumption.
Keep your children and home safe this Halloween season. Call Danback Insurance Agency at (512) 454-4567 for more information on Austin homeowners insurance.